The call of Matthew, a tax collector to discipleship by Jesus shows that Jesus totally disregarded the barriers of separation erected by religion and society. Jesus challenged the Pharisees in this "call" account.

The following manner is how Jesus answered the Pharisees. Firstly, in the example of the sick who needs a doctor (v. 12). "What I want is mercy, not sacrifice" has a reference to Hosea 6:6 wherein Jesus affirms the primacy of mercy over sacrifice. Thirdly, "¡KI did not come to call the virtuous, but sinners" is precisely the purpose of Jesus' mission. This is illustrated in the call of Matthew and Jesus' table fellowship with sinners and tax collectors (v. 10). Jesus showed His radical departure from the existing practice and welcomed the despised and marginalized. It is also a reflection of God's unconditional love revealed in Jesus that has no boundaries - disregard the man-made barriers and reaching out to the rejected and marginalized in society.

This is also what we are called to do as followers of Jesus. The first reading from prophet Amos spells out very clearly the ways the deprived and marginalized in society are being exploited and the seriousness of such lack of charity for the needy and poor in our society. In failing to respond to this condition of discipleship, God's judgement will be exacted on us.